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Jungle Cat

Highlights of the Month

Jungle Cat

(Felis chaus)

The Jungle Cat is a medium sized cat that is native to the Asian region. The jungle cat found in Sri Lanka is one of the 9 recognized sub species.

Description: Somewhat larger than domestic cats, jungle cats range from 55 to 94 cm in length, plus a relatively short 20 to 31 cm tail, and stand about 36 centimeters tall. Males are slightly larger than females. The face is relatively slender. Due to the long legs and short tail, and the fact that the cat has tufts of hair on its ears, this cat resembles a small lynx. Dependent on the subspecies the color of the fur is yellowish-grey to reddish-brown or tawny-grey, and is ticked with black. The muzzle is white, and the underside is paler in color than the rest of the body.

Habitats: They inhabit savannas, tropical dry forests and reed beds along rivers and lakes in the lowlands, but, despite the name, are not found in rainforests. Although they are adaptable animals, being found even in dry steppe, they prefer wetland environments with tall grasses or reeds in which to hide.

Behavior: Jungle cats are solitary in nature. They rest in other animals' abandoned burrows, tree holes, and humid coves under swamp rocks, or in areas of dense vegetation. Although often active at night, they are less nocturnal than many other cats, and in cold weather may sun themselves during the day. They have been estimated to travel between 3 and 6 kilometers per night

Where can I look for Jungle Cat while on tour?

Jungle Cat can be seen in Udawalawe National park and Yala national Park.

Did you know? Jungle Cats can leap to great heights to catch passing birds.